What kind of bag is best for the gym?
The best gym bag is one that’s functional, adheres to your personal preferences, and lends itself to your specific workout type. Consider the size and material of the bag, in addition to its actual style. If you’ll be lugging around sneakers and gym equipment, it’s important to choose a bag that you’re comfortable carrying; for some, a backpack with padded straps might be better than a tote or duffel as it more evenly distributes weight, sparing one shoulder from taking the brunt of the stress. It’s also a good idea to choose a bag with a designated shoe compartment for your sneakers to keep unpleasant odors at bay (and to avoid getting other items in the bag dirty).
In general, you’ll want to choose a gym bag that’s durable and lightweight, with different compartments for organizing your belongings. Opt for a gym bag with more storage space if you plan to carry any equipment (boxing gloves, wrist weights, yoga gear); if all you need is a change of clothes and a few essentials, a smaller bag should suffice.
What is the best material for a gym bag?
Gym bags come in a wide range of materials, from leather and polyester to canvas and nylon. Above all else, the best everyday gym bags are durable. You can’t go wrong with something waterproof, especially if your workout involves swimming or is cardio-heavy and will leave your clothes very sweaty. Nylon and polyester gym bags are the most water-resistant, while canvas is typically machine-washable. Leather gym bags are durable and can typically be wiped down when dirty, but they can be heavy to carry and are also on the pricier side.